GASPRO International Journal of Eminent Scholars

ABSTRACT Glaucoma is a relentless degenerative eye condition of complex origin. It accounts for irreversible blindness and impaired vision in hundreds of thousands of people, interrupting their capacity to flourish and thereby causing huge economic loss to them. Glaucoma is relatively common, especially in older adults and can cause damage to the optic nerve if left untreated. The glaucomas are a group of optic neuropathies characterized by progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. These are central nervous system neurons that have their cell bodies in the inner retina and axons in the optic nerve. Glaucoma can be slowed down to enhance life-long useful vision if and only if it is diagnosed in its early stage and effective treatment is sustained. In addition, evaluation of the optic nerve by direct ophthalmoscopy may identify suspicious signs of optic nerve damage that should also prompt referral to an eye care specialist. Compliance is vital for best results and to prevent undesirable side effects- this means following the doctor's instructions carefully. It is recommended that primary care physicians should consider referring patients with a family history of the disease for a complete ophthalmologic examination. Key Words: Glaucoma, Causes, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Treatment, Prevention